- Housing Deputy Minister T.B. Sarath Predicts Mass Opposition Arrests Before Sri Lanka’s Next Polls
Deputy Minister of Housing T.B. Sarath claims that all opposition politicians will be behind bars by the time of Sri Lanka’s next local government elections, leaving only the National People’s Power to contest.
Deputy Minister of Housing T.B. Sarath made a bold and controversial prediction during a recent address in Polonnaruwa, claiming that every opposition leader in Sri Lanka will be imprisoned before the next local government election takes place.
Speaking at a government event, Sarath declared:
“If anyone thinks they’re going to seize power at the Pradeshiya Sabha level together, let them hold on tight. Because by the time the next election comes, they’ll all be inside [jail]. No one will be left to seek votes. They won’t be imprisoned for our benefit—they’ll be found guilty after trial.”
Sarath claimed that legal cases against corrupt politicians are progressing and that convictions are inevitable. He emphasized that opposition alliances be it four or even eight parties won’t stop the law from taking its course, especially for those who have “stolen public property.”
Implications for Sri Lanka’s Political Future
The statement comes at a time when the National People’s Power (NPP) has gained significant momentum following its strong performance in the recent local government elections. Sarath’s remarks suggest that the ruling party may anticipate a clean sweep in the upcoming elections if opposition leaders are barred due to legal convictions.
While opposition parties continue to explore coalition strategies to regain local power, Sarath dismissed their efforts as futile, asserting that none of them will be eligible to run once the judiciary concludes its processes.
Critics Raise Concerns of Political Targeting
Opposition leaders and political analysts have reacted sharply to the remarks, warning that such rhetoric undermines the independence of Sri Lanka’s legal system and suggests political persecution. Human rights observers have cautioned against using the judiciary as a tool for silencing dissent.
However, the Deputy Minister insists the upcoming wave of prosecutions will not be politically motivated but based solely on solid legal grounds and evidence of corruption.
